Pasta with Marinara

Pasta with Marinara is a classic American dish that combines al dente pasta with a rich, flavorful marinara sauce made from fresh tomatoes and aromatic herbs. This comforting meal is perfect for a quick lunch or a cozy dinner, offering a taste of Italy right at your table.

Ingredients

• Pasta (spaghetti or penne) - 150 grams
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Garlic - 3 cloves, minced
• Canned whole tomatoes - 400 grams
• Dried oregano - 1 teaspoon
• Dried basil - 1 teaspoon
• Salt - 1 teaspoon
• Black pepper - 1/2 teaspoon
• Fresh basil leaves - for garnish
• Parmesan cheese (optional, ensure it's kosher) - 30 grams, grated

Steps

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente.
2. While the pasta cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
3. Add the canned whole tomatoes (with juice) to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break the tomatoes into smaller pieces.
4. Stir in dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly.
5. Once the pasta is cooked, reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta.
6. Add the drained pasta to the marinara sauce, tossing to combine. If the sauce is too thick, add a little reserved pasta water to reach desired consistency.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese if using.

Nutrition

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 12 g
• Carbs: 70 g
• Fiber: 5 g
• Sugar: 6 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Cholesterol: 5 mg
• Total Fat: 12 g
• Saturated Fat: 2 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
• Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

• Rich in antioxidants from tomatoes, which may help reduce inflammation.
• Provides a good source of carbohydrates for energy, making it a great meal for active individuals.

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